Seçkin Polat

Prof. Dr. Seçkin Polat is a full Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering at Istanbul Technical University (ITU) and has been a faculty member since 1984. He currently teaches and conducts research at the intersection of industrial engineering and business administration.

He obtained his Licence (1978–1982), Degree (1982–1984), and PhD (1984–1992) all from ITU’s Department of Industrial Engineering, followed by successive academic appointments from Research Assistant to Professor.

His core research interests include Technology and Innovation Management with particular emphasis on strategic management, scenario planning, vertical integration decisions, modularity theory, and the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies in manufacturing enterprises.

Recent publications (2020–2022) reveal a strong focus on learning-based decision models for vertical integration, the diffusion of Industry 4.0 among Turkey’s ISO 500 firms, and scenario-driven strategy development for the Turkish apparel sector. Earlier works integrate fuzzy cognitive mapping, modular design, and competence-based management perspectives.

Scientific recognition: Polat’s work has garnered 283 citations and an h-index of 7 according to Scopus. He currently supervises a vibrant pipeline of 75 theses spanning master’s and doctoral levels.

Leadership & Service:

• Department Head, Industrial Engineering (2008–2015)
• Vice-Dean (2002–2005)
• Faculty Board Member (multiple terms)
• Program Coordinator for Engineering Management YLP (2012–)
• Principal Investigator on three university-funded projects (2011–2021)

He is a long-standing member of the Operations Research Association (since 1989) and continues to advise industry through private-sector projects in logistics, performance evaluation, and organizational development.